This post will constitute my official, public resignation from the office of Knight’s Secretary and, in effect, my position as a Council member for the Temple of the Jedi Order. As it is also my intention to leave the Temple, I’ll similarly be resigning from my position as a moderator for the forums and as the primary host of Jedi Perspectives.
I haven’t been asked to step down, and I’m doing this of my own volition. I only say this for reasons of clarity and transparency, as some exits from the Temple by others in my recent memory have been shrouded by mystery or doubt. This might all seem rather sudden to some, and I don’t want there to be any confusion or harmful speculation. My reasons for leaving the Temple are purely ideological. I harbor no ill will towards any specific person or persons, nor do I believe the Temple has failed me in some way, or that it hasn’t lived up to my expectations. After careful consideration, I simply no longer think that what I believe it means to be a Jedi is compatible with the Temple’s policies, practices, dogma, and views on Jediism as a whole.
My views on what it means to be a Knight, specifically, haven’t changed. It means taking on a role of responsibility, accountability, leadership, mentorship, and of service. In that respect, I feel that I cannot in good conscience remain here at the Temple to simply engage in discussion or participate in its day to day activities. To remain here as just a participant, simply engaging in the discussions within the forums, would go against what I believe it means to be a Knight and a Jedi as a whole. I would both feel like and essentially be a hypocrite in that regard, which is something that I wouldn’t be able to stand. Nothing lasts forever, and though I’ve greatly enjoyed my time here, I do believe it’s time to move on.
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the process leading up to Knighthood, and my subsequent time operating as one of the few people that are entrusted to help run this place, has been life changing for me. It’s been nearly four years since I came to the Temple, and from top to bottom, it’s been a wonderful experience. From my initial completion of the IP, to my Apprenticeship, to all the time spent engaged in discussion and working on my different degrees, I wouldn’t have changed a thing. The Temple has opened me up to new ideas and new ways of thinking, presented ample opportunities for me to learn and grow, and would be an experience that I’d recommend to absolutely anyone.
I would like to thank everyone who has been a part of my journey here. The list is far too extensive to be included in this post, but I feel as though you all know who you are. Still, I would like to specifically thank my Training Master, Knight J.K. Barger for helping mentor me these past several years. I’d also like to thank those who actively contribute to the forums or hold other positions necessary to help facilitate their use, as well as the members of the IP and the Mod Teams, and also the Council for entrusting me with the responsibilities inherent in the position that I was asked to fill.
Although I’ll be leaving the forums, I’m not opposed to remaining in contact with anyone who wishes to do so. My Discord inbox will always be open to any of you whether it’s for philosophical and spiritual discussion, or just to send silly memes and talk about the newest video game on the market. I sincerely wish you all the best on your respective journeys down the Path, and may the Force be with you all.
